Instead, she's saving thousands by completing a two-year associates degree at Broome Community College first.

"I didn't really see the point on spending money on a four year when you can just stay at home for your first two years," she said."

With a combination of scholarships and financial aid, her costs are a fraction of her peers.

"I actually got a scholarship too. And then there's your TAP assistance also," said Hoyt, "So that brought me down to only have to pay $145 for the semester."

The US is seeing more people graduate with Bachelor's degrees than ever before according to a Pew Research Center report.

Four year state schools like Binghamton University are seeing more apply every year, including those from community colleges looking to continue their education.

BU's value is its lower tuition costs.

"They are getting an incredible education for relatively little cost compared to our private school peers," said BU Director of Admissions Townsend Plant, "So they don't have that same burden in some cases."